What Causes Sensitive Teeth

At New Image Dental office we see many patients who ask us about sensitive teeth. Tooth sensitivity affects over 45 million adults in the United States. Don’t let this common ailment stop you from eating and enjoying the foods you love. Here’s how to limit tooth sensitivity.

What Causes Sensitive Teeth?

Either your gums or teeth are too blame if eating cold, hot or sweet foods causes you discomfort. A small crack in your teeth can expand over time and expose a nerve. This nerve will cause heightened, painful reactions to different kinds of food or beverages. Similarly, worn enamel on your teeth or receded gums reveal tubes in the teeth. The tiny tubes behave like nerves, and also cause tooth sensitivity.

How to Prevent Tooth Sensitivity

Now that you know the biological root of tooth sensitivity, you may want to know what you are doing that worsens sensitive teeth. Here are 7 tips to help you prevent tooth sensitivity.

1. Brush and floss regularly

Plaque, tooth decay, and gum disease all cause sensitive teeth. Though there is some amount of genetics involved, proper brushing and flossing will help to minimize your risks.

2. Don’t brush too vigorously

Brushing your teeth with too much force exposes the tubes mentioned above and cracks your teeth. Be sure to use gentle strokes with your toothbrush and consider softer bristles.

3. Don’t grind your teeth

Grinding your teeth also wears down the protective layers of your teeth. People who grind their teeth often have tooth sensitivity and cracked teeth that require which can require dental procedure. If you think you grind, talk to your dentist in Los Angeles about wearing a protective mouth guard while you sleep.

4. Reduce acidic food

Acidic foods like lemon, tomato sauce, and pickles are tooth sensitivity culprits. These foods wear down the enamel of your teeth and should be eaten sparingly.

5. Don’t use whitening toothpaste

Whitening toothpaste can be abrasive and wear down tooth enamel. Use sparingly, if your teeth are sensitive, and talk to your dentist about other tooth whitening options.

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6. Be careful which tartar control toothpaste you use

Like plaque, tartar is something you don’t want to build up on your teeth. Tartar control toothpaste is fine — just skip the ones that have “sodium pyrophosphate.” That ingredient may be too harsh for sensitive teeth.

7. Use the right mouthwash sparingly

Mouthwashes are great for freshening breath, killing germs and providing an extra bit of fluoride. Many rinses, however, contain too much alcohol for individuals with sensitive teeth. Buy the mouthwashes that advertise that they are suitable for sensitive teeth and/or are alcohol-free.

Consult Your Dentist in Los Angeles

Don’t let your sensitive teeth and painful eating ruin the foods you enjoy. If your teeth are sensitive, talk to one of our experts at New Image Dental. We have several options for treating tooth sensitivity and will create the plan that best suits your needs. We look forward to making you smile!

Our office is a local 5 star Los Angeles dentist. We encourage our patients to come in regularly for check-ups – at least every six months.

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Wednesday: 9am - 6pm

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Sunday: Closed

New Image Dental

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